cogitations of his love for to return unto Amadis This generous Warriour having slept very soundly all the night awaked Just as the Sunne began to appear in the mouth of the cave and feeling no pain of his hurt arose much amazed how it could be possible they should be healed in so short a space A more mighty hand said hee looking upon himself then that of a man hath done this miracle nature hath not so great a power noâ— could all the simples of the earth gathered in any season whatsoever give so sudden a cure to such 〈◊〉 wounds Cassandra certainly hath doâ—e it and the Dwarf that conducted mee hither was one of the creatures which she useth upon her occasions be it as it will I find my self I thank Heaven in cafe to put on my Aâ—â—es But what is that I say am I not commanded never to wear them if I mean to live Ah 〈◊〉 what tears will thy beauty cost me and what pains do I see prepared forâ—â—e if I thus wilfully persist in my affection I cannot come neer thee without danger nor esloign my self from thee without losse of my life what shall I do then to be at rest or what counsell shall I take in so great an extremity Perill hath some hope wheras ther is none in death and apparant losse is ever worse then hazard Recourse must therfore be had to that which is least to be feared I will see Paâ—mireâ—na and rather meet with destruction then misse the favour which I must expect from her pitty This resolution carrying him out of the grot with his sword by his side and beginning to enter into the way that leads to the Citie he perceived something floting on the sea and making to the shore This object arresting him a while hee streight perceived a little wooden Coffer cast on land covered with fear-cloath and a woman upon it stifled with the waves whence judging it to be some of the relicks of the former dayes shipwrack he drew away the body with a purpose to bury it and render that last duty unto her being dead but desiring first to see what was in the Coffer hee cut the cords asunder with his sword and having very easily broken it up hee found in it a Gown of green Velvet whose ground vvas silver an Head-tyre of the Greek fashion with a number of pretty knacks belonging to vvomen his curiosity but little satisfied vvith this incounter hee took the corps and meeting vvith a pit made by nature hee laid her in it and covered her vvith a little earth that done hee turned again towards the Citie the remembrance of Palmirenna possessing him with an extream desire to see her and began to walk along still casting with himself what course hee might take to have a sight of her without being known after much musing hee resolved at last to disguise himself whereupon calling to mind the Gown hee had left behind him he presently turned back and said Is it not with reason that Lovers are said to be blind Fortune presented me with assured means to free me from the care I am in yet I neglected them and did not conceive they were usefull for my purpose this is that taking up the Coffer in his arms and carrying it into the grot wher hee had lain this is that shall ease mee of my pain I have no hair on my face nor is it much to be misliked so that having this Gown and tire on I may easily passe for a woman Saying so hee stript himself out of his clothes put on the green velvet Gown fitted his hair under the tyre with the assistance of a glasse and admitting nothing that might serve to set forth a beauty tricked up himself so neatly as hee might well have been in love with his own form had hee not been so with Palâ—irenna Being perswaded then and not vainly that he was very handsome in this habit hee hoped to see a good issue of his design and thought it long till hee was in the Citie that hee might be conducted to his Lady but not knowing how that might be effected he began to be troubled anew howbeit remembâ—ing the Dwarfs advise he resolved to leave all unto fortune wherefore wrapping up his sword which hee very much esteemed of in some linnen clothes hee buried it in a corner of the grot under a little earth to the end hee might find it there again upon occasion that done and little caring for the rest of his Armes hee left the grot and taking the most beaten way hee walked on still thinking how hee might make use of his disguise wherupon fortune being more favourable to him then hee expected hee heard some comming whom hee made shew as though hee would shun but desiring nothing more then to fall into their hands hee suffered himself to be seen and then suddenly retiring under the trees seemed to be much afraid of those hee saw which were about some six who setting spurs to their horses came up presently to him wher he was Beautious stranger said one of them that was formost and that marvelled very much to behold so rare a creature be not afraid here are none but such as are wholly devoted to your service be therefore pleased to declare what occasion hath brought you hither No other alas said hee shedding some tears the better to beguile them but my evill fortune for departing from the Empire of Greece for to go unto Sicilia to the Nuptials of a sister of mine who was to be wedded to the Viceroy there I was carried by the violence of a most furious tempest into this coast wher not farre from hence our Ship ran against a Rock and was cast away with all that were in her as I beleeve my miserable self excepted who am reserved I fear for greater misfortune You are to hope better answered this Barbarian for the Gods have not preserved you but for happier ends as shall soon be made good unto you if you can but love me as I affect you Now by my life said one of the others whose heart was as deeply wounded as his shee would shew but little judgement to preferre your affection before mine that loves her more and hath greater credit and authority to assist her then you At thesewords the first giving him a furious look they both drew out their swords and seconded by their companions who instantly sided with them they charged one another so hotly that in a quarter of an houre four of them were laid on the ground to the great contentment of Corazinda so had Amadis then named himself who stepping in between the other two desired them to become friends and to tell him the name of the countrey Fair Nymph answered the one you are in the Empire of Martaria commanded by the best Prince of the world Lead me to him then said she and not hazarding your lives for so worthless a subject share that recompence between you which
have armed my self By my faith said Mascarin you shall have my company then though 〈…〉 you had râ—â—â—er be without iâ— for the beauty of those â—â—eldâ— would be odioâ—â— to me were the fun of it once gone Herewith all that were present fell a laughing our Miralinda excepted who thinking more of the Iourney she had promised then of the fooleries of â—â—is little Lover was much perplexed because she knew not what might befall her in this Enterprise neverthelesse passing by all kind of considerations since she should not part from her Clarisel in whose affection she had placed all her hopes she willingly got to Horse as soon as she saw him arrive This small Troop then taking the way that led to the Sea to the 〈◊〉 grief of all the people of Bellomore but much more of certain Knights then present whose liberty had been captivated by the beauty of this Shepherdesse â—â—avelled ten or eleven miles and were in sight of the Sea when as Miralinda looking back perceived four Knights come gallopping after theâ— which by their demeanour seemed not to follow them for any good wherat being somewhat troubled she shewed them to Don Clarisel who â—â—king his 〈◊〉 from Mascarin that served him as his Squire sâ—â—tdown his Beaver and stayed for them much against Cardoran's mind that was mightily vext for that he was not in case to assist him As soon as they had overtaken them one of those Knights went strait â—o Miralinda and in a jolly manner said unto her Faire Shepherdesse whither go you why would you know answered Clarisel or how is she obliged to you that she should render you an account of her actions what is that to you good-man Cockscomb said another So much as I will knock his paâ—e answered Clarisel and make you know how to rule your tongue better wherupon he struck him that held Miralinda's bridle with his sist Ganâ—let and all so rudely on the head that his brains flew aboâ—â— and drawing out his Sword after he had thrown away his Launce that did but hinder him â—e began to charge the others with such valour that at the second blow he clove one down to the teeth whose death possessing those that remained more with fury then fear they let drive at him both at once and striking both on his Helmet made him knock his chin against his brest wherwith he was so enraged that grasping his sword fast in his hand he let iâ— fall on him that was next him with such horrible violence that he divided his body in twain to the great astonishment of Lindorenna and her husband who marvailed exceedingly at so sudden an execution which had been accompanied with the death of the fourth had he not by setting spurs to his Horse found safety in his flight Clarisel seeing no more enemies alive suddenly cast his eyes on his Shepherdesse and perceiving some tears on her cheeks blamed her for her unnecessary fear considering whâ—â— proofes he had formerly given her of his valour and so shortly after with the rest of the company they entred into a Bark and put themselves to Sea CHAP. XVII Clarisel narrowly escaping shipwrack lands in great Brittâ—in 〈◊〉 Florimond of Canabea combats a Gyant rescâ—er Claristea and marries her to Florimond CLarisel and his company being bound for the countie of Garaman sayled with a prosperous gale for two or three days at the end whereof the Sea that in nothing is more constant then in its â—nconstancie began so to rage with a contrary wind that the Vessel was carried sometimes as high as the clouds and by and by thrown down so low that they beheld mountains of water over their heads the Marriners who little regard dangers and that trust in their experience seeing such sudden and violentmotions bestirred themselves but unable to resist the fury of the storm they laboured in vain for the Sayls being rent to pieces the Tackle torn and the Mast broken over board all were out of hope of escaping ship wrack were they not speedily succoured by some particular grace from Heaven which was so deafe to the cryes of these poor wretches that it powred down such abundance of rain and hayl upon them and thundred and lightned so fearfully as every thing seemed to be the Image of a dreadfull and cruel death the horror of the danger augmenting by such prodigious accidents Miralinda more dead then alive was in her Shepherds arms that nothing moved with his own bewayled the casting away of so fair a creature Alas said he kissing her eyes what a losse will the world make of these two Suns and why should so divine a beauty perish with humane things O God! if my offences have begot this effect of thy displeasure let it fall but upon me and let not this Innocent which makes thee to be admired in the world suffer a death she hath not deserved Herewith beleeving that the Bark was sinking under water he took his Mistris in his arms either to escape or drown with her howbeit perceiving that the Sea grew calmer and that the wind drove them gently towards a Port he began to take heart again and comforting his Shepherdesse he led her up to the Deck a little after approaching to land he lept a shore with infinit content to see that which he loved so much no longer subject to the fury of a pittilesse Element the rest landing in like manner Clarisel caused his Horse and Arms to be brought him and beholding no habitation and the night at hand he made Lindorenna's Gentlewoman carry along some provisions and taking a little path entred into a Wood where it growing dark he and his train alighted and free from the fear of a troubled Sea fell to that which the Gentlewoman had provided with a very good appetite This little repast finished they layd them all down at the feet of a tree and began to 〈…〉 who 〈◊〉 with his passâ—â—◠〈…〉 fortuâ—â— wherein he continued not long for hearing the voyce of one lameâ—ting hearose and going softly to know who it was he câ—â—e to five or six trees planted in such sort that their branches 〈…〉 they made a little Cabinet from whence the â—ight and complaints that he heard procâ—â—ded Alas said a man for the tone of his voyce declared him to be so What lover was ever so unhappy as I and how just cause have I to complaine of my dâ—stiniâ— that forceth me to love an ingratefull Woman who is insensible of the 〈◊〉 she hath done me and that takes delight in my ruine my services are despised she laughs at my suffâ—rings and which is worse her retyrement leaves me no hope of ever seeing an end of my miseries but by death Ah cruell resolution why did it not prâ—cede the acquisiâ—ion she madeof my heart or stay till I was dead so should I now have beeâ— without 〈◊〉 or happy in my Grave but I must needs lose my freedome for 〈◊〉 end my dayes wretchedly and the
and in spight of hâ—â— carrying her away threw her and himselfe into a great lake which was at the corner of the goodliest orchard in the world and that transported with a furious despaire he ran to cast himself after that he might not overlive such a losse when as oâ—â— of the laâ—â— a Nymph of most exqâ—â—site beauty with her haire dispread over her neck and shoulders appeared who said to him Fulgoran remember thâ—â— good men are not born to be slaves to their passions and that a worthy Knight should never give himself over to inconsiderate affections which oftentimes bring along with them strange misfortunes Mark well my beauty which is by the heavens reserved for thee It shall one day extinguish the unchast flames wherewith thou now art scorched and make thee tâ—ste the sweetnesse which is found in the embraces of a chast and vertuous woman Saying so she dived under water leaving him so displeased to see her so soon berest him that his body laboured no lesse them his minde so as a waking a little after sun rising he found himself all in a sweat and his eyes full of teares O yee Gods said he to himselfe recording what he had seen are these the effects of my dreame or rather the favour of the Gods who desiring to preserve me from ruine command me to shun all occasions of offending them by my criâ—â—s Spirits have indeed some shadow of truth but they use not to appeare with so many circumstances nor for the most part do we see them for our good These are without doubt revelations upon which I must settle my coâ—tent I am advised to shun all foolish love I will do it I am counselled to leâ—â—n more wit by mine own sufferings it is but reason and out of this faithful advertisement I must take a good lesson to love for the glory of a love both more pious and better grounded Farewell then all witlesse passions which have so often troubled me I will make my selfe no more a slave to your commands I am now again mine own or at least I subject my self to a more pleasing and secure Empire Rising then free from all care unlesse it were to finde out that fair one whose image was ingraven in his heart he waked Prigmaleon and the unknown Knight that were still sleeping and shewing them an Iland afar off put them in some hope that their Bark might bring them thither to meet with some adventure Within two hours they came to land not more wondering at the beauty of the place wherein about a flight shot off they saw a stately Castle then to finde a big Knight in the sea up to the knees couragiously defending himself from two Giants and forty or fifty villâ—ins armed with murrions and halberts who pressing him very sorely made him despair both of victory and life The inequality of this fight perswading them to relieve him they instantly leaped on shore where straight way a Gentlewoman presented her self at their feet My Lords said she with sighs and tears have pity upon my grief and do not lâ—ave this good Knight in the hand of these villains I brought him hither upon the word of Scarafand the Master of this place and the most perfidious man breathing with an opinion that he should combat with none but himself for the deliverance of a Gentleman whom I infinitely love but the traitour without regard of his protested fâ—ith hath engaged him as you see after that he had in single combat slain one of his sons so as I can expect nothing but his death if you assist him not Rise Gentlewoman said Prigmaleon and be assured that we will not fail to succour him in this distresse Herewith they drew out their swords and began to march toward the enemy But they met one of the Giants with five and twenty halbertiers comming to stop their passage which Fulgoran considering and fearing the big Knight would not be able longer to endure the violence of so many opposites flâ—w in amongst them with the unknown Knight leaving Prigmaleon to incounter the Giant and laid upon them with such fury that he presently sent five or six of them dead to the earth having scattered them in that sort he passed on running till he came to those that fought with the big Knight where at his first comming in he gave the Giant such a blow upon the head as he tumbled him into the water out of which he never rose again for the weight of his arms keeping him down he was there drowned receiving in that maner the punishment of his wickednesse The great Knight seeing himself so opportunely seconded quickly got out of the water and thrusting himself into the midst of those rascalls in a short time laid seven or eight of them at his feet imitating Fulgoran who to their horrour making them feel both the edge and point of his sword cut halberts shields cuirasses murrions in pieces so that in a little while he had strewed the ground with armour that he had hewen in sunder and with arms legs and heads that he divided from bodies Those which remained seeing with what rage these Knights did massacre them fled with all speed into the Castle and quickly locked themselves up therein expecting what fortune would befall their companions In the mean time Prigmaleon combatted Scarafand one of the most furious Giants of the earth with so much valour as Fulgoran was amazed at it for he had made so many breaches in his arms as he had scarce any bloud left in him so that he fell by the violence of a blow that lighted on his helmet at the same time that Fulgoran and the great Knight beholding the unknown Knight shrewdly pressed by these rogues recommenced their butchery which was such as there survived not one but onely the four that had before recovered the Castle This execution ended the great Knight unlaced his helmet and craved the Knights hand to kisse in acknowledgement of their favour in succouâ—ing him When as Fulgoran who knew him cast his arms about his neck crying out O ye Gods said he What a happy meeting is this And how am I ingaged to these Sages by whose direction our ship hath been guided to this Island since by my arrivall here I receive such a benefit My dear friend Grandimore I never thought to finde you in such danger and I was amazed at the valour which you shewed in your combat with so many mighty enemies yet having otherwhere seen greater proof thereof I cannot doubt but in the end the victory would have been yours though the number of them were excessive Neverthelesse I heartily thank the Gods for bringing me hither where I might in some sort requite you for that which you did for me when you undertook the combat against the Count of Clina in my behalf At these words Grandimore who till then knew him not opened his arms and embracing him with much affection remained a good while
Cassandra you can do no lesse neither can you choose but rejoyce at the happy event of these things But Sir it is most necessary that I should a little disturb the quiet and content you now enjoy and impart unto you a secret which I fear will find but a bad welcome All the Pagans are up in Arms at the instance of Idalcan Emperour of Melly who not long since received an overthrow in this place and so great is the number of the forces they have assembled now ready to fall upon Ethiopia because of the alliance the Emperour Prigmaleon hath lately made with you that unlesst it be assisted by some peculiar providence from heaven who never suffers his to perish for want of succour you cannot easily prevent their ruine I know very well the greatnesse of your courage will contemn this danger but take heed what you do for all other Armies that you have seen assembled heretofore are nothing in comparison of this where so many brave Knights will be ready to encounter you that the force of your unconquered Armies and of your friends were never more usefull and necessary than now Let them come when they will said Florisel we will be prepared for them and I hope to give them such entertainment as shall well abate the fury of their pride and the rather I make no doubt if you will assist us a little with some effect of your skill Sir answered she you must expect succour from heaven and your own valour the assistance of my skill can afford you none unlesse I should raise the dead and bring them to fight for your safetie but I perceive you do not understand these words nor can I speak in plainer tearms till the Destinies give way unto it think only upon those things which a good Captain ought to put in practise for the annoying of his enemyes and being seconded by Fortune who is alwayes your friend make them know that you are still invisible You have advised so well answered Florisel that if you please to go and try what entertainment our Ladyes will give you I will in the mean time deliberate therupon so leaving her with Sidonia and the other Princesses that accompanied her to whom she was forced to make a particular relation of the loves and adventures of Amadis and Clarisel and to describe the beautiee of Armazia Mirglinda Palmirenna and her Sisters He caused aâ—l the Princes then present at Constantinople to assemble in the Councell chamber where he spake to them in this manner Sirs I did not call you hither to resolve whither we ought to make a War or no since necessitie enforceth us therunto but to consult with you what means we had best use to oppose the violence of so mighty an enemie as is now ready to fall upon us It is a matter of no small consequence our eternall glory or absolute ruine depending therupon Wherfore I am of opinion our states having so long a time enjoyed peace and being now furnished with a multitude of brave souldiers who desire nothing more than opportunity to shew themselves so that it will be the best way to employ our Subjects our Allies all our friends and to raise as many men as possibly we can without taking from such garrisons as shal be necessary in important places so to prevent the insolencies of our enemies and cause that desolation which continually waits upon War to fall rather upon their own than our Territories They aym at Ethiopia wherfore said he addressing himself to Prigmaleon my advise shall be since that Empire receives your Lawes and acknowledgeth your Soveraignty that you depart suddenly with such forces as I will send along with you that you employ all the friends you can make in these parts that you cause your Ports and Frontier Towns to be fortified with all diligence and that you manage your affairs with such discretion that you may be able for a while to withstand the assault of so furâ—ous an Armie In the mean time we will hasten your succour and cut out so much work for these Insolents that perhaps it may prove the last designe they shall ever undertake against us This oppinion meeting with no opposition was equally received of all as the most profitable so every one retyred to consider of his charge Florisel gave out Commissions for the speedy levying of fiftie thousand Horse in Greece sent certain Gentlemen to Don Rogel to Spheramond to the Queen of Alaxtraxerea to Lucondus King of France dispatched his Courriers to Rome to Germanie to Sardinia to great Brittain to Guindaya to the Kings of Dardania of Comogena of the greater Indies of Samothracia of Lydia of Cataya of Poland of Hungary of Moldavia of Ireland of Scotland of Turkey in briefe to all the Princes of his acquaintance intreating them to meet him with their forces at Constantinople as soon as they possibly could He having made all these dispatches and being taught by experience that the wisdome and foresight of men do oftentimes exempt them from eminent dangers he caused Prigmaleon and Fulgoran to depart in a small Fly-boat which cost the fair Polixena his Wife many a tear who was forced to stay behind him and four dayes after he sent the valiant Esquilan of Poland in whose vertue he was most confident with him the two Cenophales Rosanel of Astrea who was then in the Court with the fair English Lady his Wife â—lorian Tristor Perionaf Turkie Quadragant Agrian of Scotland Abies of Ireland Dordanio Florisartus Leonidas of Mesopotamia Armond of Bohemia â—nd Melford in the head of fiftie thousand Horse commanding them to repaire with all expedition to Saba the chief Citie of Ethiopia and to acknowledge Prigmaleon for their Generall untill such time as he should be there himself in person In the mean space whilest these troups were advancing Prigmaleon and Fulgoran at the Sea had the benefit of afair wind but we seldome arrive at our desires without some crosses for on a sudden the Sea begins to swell and waxeth so rough that the Marriners foreseeing a violent tempest were forced to cast Anchor at the edge of a rock which made the point of a little Island where these two Knights dis-imbarquing themselves to decline the trouble of the Seas advanced into the Land commanding the Pilot to wait their returne The Iland seemed to be very delightfull by reason of the abundance of Trees planted in a handsome order upon the sides of little pleasant hills and shadowing the crystall Rivolets which environed the fruitfull Meadows As they were discoursing of the wonders of God the Creatour of all those things that presented themselves to their view they espyed a beautifull young Lady comming towards them who ever and anon tearing her hair uttered these sad and strange complaints Alas said she must the fire consume so sweet a face and can a womans rage be the cause of so great a disaster O ye gods let this day produce some
of his birth and that Florisel and Sidonia were extreamly afflâ—cted with sorrow for this losse These displeasing news caused great trouble in the Court all pastimes ceased complaints were renewed and every one grieved according to the measure of his love the new Knights desirous to shew their affection to the services of the house of Greece immediatly armed themselves and comming altogether before the Emperour they besought his permission to go in search both of this yong Prince and of the adventures of the World which request being granted them they departed the same day with a resolution to run over all Countries rather then to fail of their enterprise but their design was to no purpose for the Enchantresse Creonda in whose hands he was and that had not taken him away but only for that she foresaw by her Art that of her daughter Grisolita he should beget a Prince excelling all of his time had so enchanted him as by the sequel of this Discourse will appear that none but Alcander could know the place of his retreat or be able to contribute to his deliverance The Court being in mourning for this bad news and for the absence of so many Princes Spheramond had no contentment left him but in the conversation of Silvan who not willing to abandon him so soon endeavoured to make the time more pleasing and his losse lesse sensible unto him Howbeit forced by the necessity of his affairs he was constrained to depart together with his wife for to reduce the people of Lidia to their duties who seeing neither King nor Queen rendred but little obedience to their governours and began to rise in tumultuous maner Their departure made the Court very solitary but the Emperour knowing how to live every where with contentment never troubled himself with the consideration of so many losses as he had endured and began to attend the care of his subjects when a second advertisement gave him a fresh cause of discontent CHAP. XVIII The adventures of the new Knights after they had left the Court the Emperour Spheramond is advertised that the King of Canabea raised a mighty army to invade the Empire of Trebisond FOrtune is seldome satisfied with one attempt upon us she redoubles her assaults to see if she can overthrow us and never shews her face if we do not force her to it by the greatnes of our courage The losse of the little Clarisel of Guindaia not able to suffice her rage she would needs once again arm the Pagans for the ruine of those brave Princes who shewed still the same countenance in their afflictions as they had carried in their prosperity and were not troubled for being crost since it did but render their vertues the more eminent by ministring to them occasions of glory the new Knights going out at severall parts to seek adventures in the world Russian riding along with Esquilan on a plain hard by the Sea perceived a damsell flying from a tall old man that pursued her with a sword in his hand As I live said he at the view of so discurteous an act I would never have believed that a man so neer his grave could have done a thing so unworthy of himself Let us by no means leave this maid in this distresse wherfore put on I pray you that we may free her from the hands of this barbarous man which without doubt will never spare her being so inraged as he is Heerwith they set spurs to their horses but make what haste they could they were not able to overtake them before they came to the sea side where they saw the wench leap in a Bark and the old man after her who having taken her by the hair made as though he would have cut off her head The Knights much grieved for that they could not aid her in regard the Bark was put off a little from land they approached to them as neer as they could and thinking to alay his fury with intreaties began to conjure him to consider what he himself was and how little honour he should gain by dipping his hands in the bloud of a woman I know very well answered he what every man ows to his reputation but withall I am not ignorant of the content that revenge affoords This woman cannot escape death for satisfaction of the wrong I have received from her except you grant me one boon You shall have it said Esquilan whatever it be that you desire of us Come aboard this Bark then replied he and go with me I shall have time enough to let you know what I will require of you Wherupon not staying for further entreaty they presently lighted from their horses and by the advice of the old man leaving them upon the strand they entred that little Bark which without attending any more lading began to cut the waves with incredible speed The Knights much amazed to see themselves caried away in that sort looked round about them and seeing no Sailers for the steering and conducting this vessell they desired to be informed by what means it was done but they found no body to satisfie them therin the old man and the damsell no longer appearing nor any thing to be found in the Bark but two little Beds and a Table furnished with exquisit meat Verily said Esquilan this is one of the wise Alquifs or the unknown Vrganda's devices but never credit me if for fear of any inchantment I forbear now to eat of this meat wherwith he drew to the Table and finding a paper upon it he opened it and therin read these words Excellent Princes do not wonder at the novelties you have seen this day all is done for your glory and we have with Art disposed you to follow the influences of the Stars for which our care of you you will then give us thanks when as you shall with the hazard of your lives give us that you have this day promised us If I had not said Russian oftentimes heard of the like incounters I should be somwhat mistrustfull and could not touch this meat fearing the malice of some enemy but I entend not to be more cautelous then your self with that they sat down and finding the meat agreeable to their palâ—t they fell to with a good appetite and their repast being ended with thanks to heaven which never leaves his without relief in their necessities they saw a Dwarf come in to them who shewing a spirit much greater then his body thus spake unto them My Lords it is time for you to rowse up your selves and worthily to employ these arms you wear Heerwith they arose and looking about them they perceived two ships grapled together in one of the which were two Knights invironed with about twenty souldiers and two horrible Giants that charged them with such fury as they were amazed to see what resistance they made Their Bark laying them aboord just as they had laced on their helmets they leapt into that ship wherin
with such fury as above ten thousand Pagans lost their lives at that first encounter for thinking of nothing lesse then this surprise they were extreamly amazed to see their enemy on every side them Florisel Prigmaleon Rogel Spheramond Fulgoran the Cenophales Russian Lucendus and the rest of these invincible Princes like lightning shattered as many souldiers as they lighted upon and grew so terrible that within an howr the Pagans betook them to flight where the slaughter grew so great all being in disorder that a little after Sun-rising the fields of Greece were strewed with the bodies of an hundered and eight thousand men fallen under the edge of the sword the rest having luckily recovered their ships to receive and shelter them from that tempest The Christian Princes then retiring to the town with much joy for so happy a victory which had not cost them above fifteen thousand men return to the City with great triumph CHAP. XXXVII The Baptisme of Prigmaleon and Fulgoran together with the inchanting of the most part of the Princes and Ladies of Greece THE Court being full of rejoycing and our Princes seeking daily new diversions to passe away the time all their forces were dismist the Citizens of Constantinople took the liberty to go into the Countrey to repair the ruines which the enemy had made in their lands about the City and the Peasaâ—â—s seeing no more souldiers a forraging carried their cattell as they were wont into the fields to feed Thus all things being at quiet and peace Fulgoran who was desirous that the content of his being known should not be imperfect resolved to be washed in that Fountain of salvation by water whereof man was regenerated into grace and no longer to think of his idols who till then had mis-led him but to begin to adore one true and Almighty God which determination of his infinitely pleased Don Rogel and generally all the rest of the Princes who desiring to celebrate that Sacrament with all kinde of magnificence gave order accordingly for the Ceremonies thereof And now every thing being in a readinesse the streets and windows full of people and the Patriarch of Constantinople attending their comming in the Church Prigmaleon intreated the Princes of Greece to give him a little audience and thus spake on to them Excellent Princes I do not think you will imagine that any weaknesse or fear doth carry me to that I am about to do seeing I am heer intreated amongst you with so much kindnesse and honour whereas I might in reason have expected a resenting of the wrongs that you have received from me but that you will rather say it proceeds from the providence of that God whom you adore who desiring my salvation hath made me with patience to hearken unto the reasons which you used to my compâ—nion for to draw him out of the errour wherein he hath lived so long I have profited by them as he hath done and am determined to receive the same character which you intend to conferre on him this morning And as we have been fellowes together in many dangers so will we be also in this action wherein the grace of heaven is to be communicated unto us This is said Florisel embracing him this is brave Prince indeed so great a grace that you may draw more glory from this holy motion then fromall the brave exploits that your courage hath hitherto performed God which hath raised you above such multitudes of people and endowed you with all the rare perfections that are able to render a man of your quality worthy of all commendations hath not left you in your blindnesse but determining to make use of your service for the glory of his religion the ruine whereof you have heretofore sought hath knit this bond of friendship between you and my soone that you might share with him in the happinesse which by his being known for what he is was to befall him wherewith we are infinitely contented And as we had determined freely to employ our selves for your service meerly out of the consideration of your vertue and greatnesse we will now do it the more willingly for that you shall become our brother in bâ—ptisme whereunto let us go then presently and be pleased that I may conduct you to the Church as your God-father and that the beautifull Empresse of the Persians may be my partner I will not spend time answered he in protractations of doing you service because I will not delay so good a worke But I beleeve sir that Fulgoran and I shall not be the sole parties in it Bruzanges Arfleâ—ra Florimond Larmella Grandimore and the unknown Kâ—ight wil also partake of it All the better said Florisel God shall have so much the more glory howsoever let us proceed to this holy action with that they went toward the Church Prigmaleon between Florisel and the Empresse of Persia Fulgoran between the Prince of France and the faire Queen Sidonia Bruzanges led by Rogel and the beauteous Queen of France Arfleura by Spheramond and the faire Savagesse the unknown Knight by Silvan and the fair Cilinda Grandimore by Dorigel and the Empresse of the Parthians and Larmella by Filadard and the beauteous Polixena who went with some content to see Prigmaleon figh for her For being exceeding lovely valiant and a very mightie Prince she could not despise his affection in her heart counted it a glory to her beauty to be honored with so great a triumph The ceremonics ended all the Princes returned to the Palace where they were magnificently feasted And intending to deferre the exercise of Armes till some other day they were speaking of going to dance when as Alcander rising up with Vrganda and addressiâ—g himselfe to Florisel thus spake It is true great Prince that I let you see the desire I have to do somewhat for your good and that you should know how the studies both of my self and these Ladies pointing to Vrganda and young Cassandra have not been fruitlesse wherefore follow us and if you love your lives give us leave to dispose of you as we thinke fit I have resolved answered he with a cheerfull countenance never to swerve from your directions being most assured by the many testimonies you have given us of your love that you desire our happinesse you may command then when you please and I will be in a readinesse as soon as you have spoken Stay then here said Alcander till I have given order for every thing then taking Sidâ—nia by the hand he placed her by her husband made Don Rogel and the Empresse of the Persians follow them after them Lâ—cendâ—â— and the faire Infanta Fortnna Spheramond and the Princesse Richarda his wife Alastraxarea and Rozâ—lianâ— the two Cenophales Gadard and Filadard and putting himselfe with Vrganda in the head of them all he marched to the fountain of lovers made all those Princesses go with Vrganda under one of the Arches whilst himselfe with the Princes were under
him presently to be laid into a bed and making use of a precious balm which she ordinarily carried about her she willed him to rest untill such time as the medicine had wrought its operation CHAP. III. The discourse between Armazia and Rozalmond the reciprâ—call assurances of their loves his departure from Cardacia with the extream discontent of the Princesse and what were his adventures CAssandra leaving Rozalmond to his rest walked into the orchard where the trees diversly ranged yeelded an incredible delight and devising with her self what means she might use to get from this Court without giving too much discontent to these new lovers she espied Armazia who being carried with clean contrary thoughts was entertaining her self with the pleasure she conceived to be in the possessing of a man on whom the heavens seemed to have conferred all the beauty comelinesse and valour of the world Should I not be happy indeed said she to her self if this Knight were born for me and should I not have cause to praise my good fortune if his condition should prove equall to mine that so my parents might one day grant me unto him in recompence of his services Yes no doubt and I should think that my content would surpasse all the pleasures of the earth nor would I envy the very glory of the Gods But alas I am afraid considering the misery derived unto us from the fault of the first man that Fortune hath not given Scepters to his being and that in regard thereof he will be lesse acceptable to my father who erring with others will more esteem greatnesse then vertue and will make me wretched in his avarice Howbeit I cannot think that a valour so great a countenance so promising a presence so amiable and actions so majesticall may possibly be encountred in a vile and base person Vertue delights in the highest places and doth not communicate her self to such as know not how to acknowledge her it cannot be but that his birth doth equall his merits and sure I commit no fault in loving him neverthelesse it were not amisse to clear this point instantly and so free my self of this unquietnesse that thus afflicts me which may easily be done for this damsell that follows him will not refuse I hope to give me this satisfaction I will send for her then and under colour of informing my self of the fashions of his countrey draw her to acquaint me with that which I so much desire to know whereupon turning about to command some of her women to fetch her unto her she perceived her declining that walk as it were for fear to interrupt her in her meditations wherewithall being very glad she called her unto her and taking her by the hand said thus Sweet heart you shall do me a singular favour if during our walk amongst these trees you will first recount unto me who this young Knight is being the valiantest that ever bare arms and unto whose courage we are bound in so powerfull an obligation and afterwards falling upon the fashions of your Countrey you will faithfully deliver how the Knights live there with their mistrisses Madam answered Cassandra I will content you in a few words Our lands are happy because they produce excellent Knights and most beautifull women though I must confesse I never saw any that might compare with your Highnesse but that which addes unto our happinesse is the freedom wherein we live we know not what suspicion means the Gallants frequent the Ladies and the Ladies converse with them and are ordinarily seen in company together either in the woods or fields free from any conjecture that may any way redound to the prejudice of their honour It is certain that vertue is not alwayes found in all kinde of persons if any undiscreet Knight shall offend any Gentlewoman whom he shall meet alone she shall be presently righted by the next that passeth by and so is the insolence of a dishonourable fellow revenged concerning the situation of the countrey I will speak briefly onely saying that it is very goodly fertile in fruits replenished with beautifull and strong towns pleasant rivers and woods Now the merit of this Knight the knowledge of whom you desire Madam he is come of the noblest race in the world and his parents are at this day so great that the earth trembles at the onely report of their arms for his valour you have had the first proofs of it you are judge of his person but in regard you are as yet ignorant of his disposition I will assure you that imagination is not able to conceive a sweeter or more pleasing more I may not say a precedent Oath forbids me and without breach of my faith I may not name him untill such time as he hath finished some warlike adventures for the execution whereof I conduct him and therefore Madam I humbly desire you that you will be pleased that he may depart to morrow How to morrow said Armazia he is not in case to go so soon but say he were you could not in any reason carry him away before the Emperour my father have bethought him of the recompences which are due to his valour Madam answered Cassandra men of this Knights condition undertake nothing for gain honour directs their enterprises and all the riches of the world could not make him step one foot you are the treasure he desires and the glory of your service will be far more dear to him then all the kingdoms of the earth This makes you blush but Madam please you to pardon me if I go farther it is no time now to disguise your thoughts I know them as well as your self and can tell that the perfections of this Knight have gotten him good place in your favour as your beauty hath not left him without passion You love him but it is not fit that your affection should deprive the world of the fruit of his vertue him of the honour that he is to reap thereby you of the content you are to hope from it and his friends of the satisfaction which they shall finde in the praises every where published of him the Ordinances of the Destinies Madam must be pursued wherefore let your patience make your pleasures which you are to enjoy by his alliance more sweet I will return him unto you within a certain time so full of glory that you shall think you had been very unhappy if you had hindered his designes Weigh these reasons Madam and never stand upon the consideration of his wounds they are healed by this time and let me obtain that favour from you as to trust your secrets in my hands I may do you more service therein then you are aware of and without me you will hardly see your desires fulfilled It is true indeed said Armazia that I did not think you had had such knowledge and that being surprized in this manner my colour rose in my face but since nothing can be concealed from you
extraordinary violence that he verely beleeved the ruins of some building overthrown by lightning had fallen upon him and had therwith been layd along had he not supported himself upon one of his 〈◊〉 and hands howbeit rising presently again and resolving to dye or vanquish he advanced his Courtelas and displaying all his strength he discharged it so dreadfull on Clarisels Helmet that he sent him tumbling down three or four paces off and casting a great deal of blood out of his mouth which so frighted Miralinda that she swounded in Florimonds arms Rozanel being exceedingly grieved then at so heavie an accident drew forth his Sword and was going to oppose the Gyant when as he perceived Clarisel to rise instantly to part with such horrible and unexpressable fury that even 〈◊〉 himself who could not be perswaded that all the Thâ—â—der bolâ—s of Heaven could ever have made him fear began to â—â—emble at the apprehension of the threatning Tempest of his enemies advanced Sword which cutting off his arm that for want of a Shield he had listed up in defâ—nes of his head he separated his body in two pieces to the wonder and 〈◊〉 of all the people and especially of Tristor and â—â—zanel who straight way comming in to him gave him amillion of thanks and 〈◊〉 him to the very skies but Clarisel seeing what case 〈◊〉 was in deâ—iâ—ed 〈…〉 to think him incivill if he did not 〈…〉 that respect was due to their â—uality for to go and succour his Shepherdesse to whose safety his life was insâ—â—â—rably tyed Whâ—â—â— upon running to Miralinda he used such present remediâ—s as she came to her self again filling all the assistants with no â—â—sse marvell at the excellencie of her beauty then they were at his force and valour All things thus well resetled Rozanel and Tristâ—r prevailed so farre with Clarisel and his company that they were contented to take their lodging in the Court where Miralinda Clarislea and Lindorenna were infiniâ—ly caressed by the fairest Angelea and Alteriâ— who were sotaken with the incomparable beauty of our Shepherdess as they could never satisfie themselves enough in beholding and admiring her Not long after when as Clarisel Quâ—dragant Abiâ—s and the rest were cured of their wounds the Triumphs and Iousts were renewed where Clarisel performed such wonders as he acquired the reputation of one of the prime Knights of the earth and possessed all those Lords with such a desire to know him better that one day Rozanel intreated him before them all so far to oblige them as to let them understand his name his countrey and parentage If it were to doe you any service brave Prince answered he be confident I would make no difficulty to obey you but knowing that it will little avayl you and that it much imports me to conceal it I shall humbly beseech you to excuse me only be assured that the greatest glory I desire to have in the world is to be a Shepherd for the love of this Shepherdess Iudging by this speech that he would not discover himself they importuned him no farther and laboured to give him the best entertainment they possibly could devise for to stay him amongst them but loath to lose time he took his leave a little after of all these Princes and Ladies as also of Florimond and Clarislea who likewise returned into France and imbarking himself in a Ship that Garament had provided for him he sayled towards the Ilands of Corolandaya CHAP. XIX The arrivall of the King of Cabilla in the Empire of Mâ—rtaria and the furious battell that was fought on the Sea-shore in disputing the descent of his fâ—rces THE bad estate wherin Rifantes returned into Cabilla having mightily incensed the King his Father he presently dispatched away Commissioners for the levying of Souldiers thoughout all the parts of his Dominions and resolving to make use of his friends he wrote unto the Kings of Astramer of Zambian of Corniban of Ircassia of Langican of Pâ—ripatan of 〈◊〉 of Fortan of Alarmia of Cassilana and particularly to the redoubted Brizardan Soldan of Atalasiâ— and to the powerfull King of Filzandria Meriâ—â—ran to â—ntreat them to embrâ—ce with him the 〈…〉 soâ— by tâ—â— Emperour of Martâ—â—â—◠〈…〉 of the Kingâ— of Allanarâ— and 〈…〉 also to 〈◊〉 Arâ—â—â— in such sort that about two 〈…〉 there arrived in his Kingdome thirty thousand Horse in the head whereof marched Brizardâ—â— with three Gyants anâ— two and tweâ—tie thousand Foot condâ—câ—â—â— by the Kings of Astramer aâ—d 〈◊〉 thirty and five thousand men under the command of the Kingâ— of Corâ—ibâ—n and 〈◊〉 fourscore thousand Horse raysed in the Kingdoms of â—â—â—ipâ—tan and Lapgiâ—â—â— with three Gyants eight and twenty thousand Foot with the Kings of Urbana Alarâ—ia and Cassilan twelve thousand horse of the territoâ—iâ—â— of Foâ—tan thirty thousand foot out of the Kingdoms of Alfanara Corcutan twenty thousand Horse and six thousand Foot conducted by the braâ—â— King of Filxandria who was accompanied with the prâ—â—◠〈◊〉 oâ—â— of the strongest Knights of all Paganism These 〈…〉 unto two hundred and fourtie thousand men having â—in wâ—â—l entertained and all the great persons extraordinarily caressed the king of Câ—billa being elected General of the whole Army though he had long â—oâ—â—ested â—o have had the command therof layd upon the Soldâ—â— of Aralâ—fiâ— caused all of them to be carefully embarqued with a full inâ—â—â—â— to bee thorowly revenged on the Emperour of Martaria who in the mâ—â—n time remembring 〈…〉 his â—â—â—oces prepared an Army of fourescore thousand Horse â—n hundred and thirty thousand Foot and nine Gyants through the assistance of the Kings of Arbales of Grizolia of Calizant of Miriaâ—â— of Tâ—lin of Bolâ—â—â—â— of Merlian of Carderia and of Balivan who sâ—conded by 〈◊〉 fair Slave and the two strangers that lived with incrâ—dible delight in the sweet and uncontrolled fruition of their dearly-beloved Ladies made no question of good success victory All things thus ordered then they expected their enemies who being discovered one morning gave an alarm unto the Martarians which suddenly ranged themselves into three squadrons the first conducted by the Kings of Arbales Beltona and Grifolia in the head whereof Cirazinda placed her selâ—â— with 〈◊〉 Gyants the second by the Princes of Calizant Merlian and Bâ—livan accompanyed with Floridan and a like number of Gyants the third by the Soveraign of Tolin Miriana and Carderia unto whom Lucibel joyned himself presently covered the Sea shore couragiously attending the arrivall of the enemies Ships which carried by a favourable wind and perceiving these troups stand imbattelled put themselves in order to combat and force them Approaching then with furie they laboured with a world of Boats and Bridges to land but the Imperialists withstood them for the space of two whole hâ—â—res together with such extraordinary valour that the Sea was all bloâ—d and full of dead bodies whereat the Soldan of Aralifia Rifanâ—â—s and the proud Arastrâ—â— were in such rage that leaping all three together
incomparable beauty which with fear was fallen down under a bush with her cousin the excellent Agriclea The desire he had to oblige this fair one by some service having made him suddenly to approach he drew out his Cymetar and giving his horse that by no means would come on to his companiâ—â— â—e discharged so mighty a blow on the body of this creature as might wâ—ll have divided an Anvile but the scales wherewithall he was covered being impenetrable he did but â—ow a little with it neverthelesse it forced hiâ— to quit his pray for to make head against the Gyant who â—o wâ—it dismayed gave him another full on the head with such a prodigeoâ—â—fall as made his brains fly out in five or six places sending him dead to the ground This dangerous enemy being in case to hurt no body any more Gorgophon went to Armazia and finding her in aswound he took her up in his arms for to recover her howbeit considering that he should never have a more a favourable opportunity he remounted on his horse after he had set Agriclea behind his companion and making away with incredible speed he got to the port where his ship rode into the which he imbarked himselfe with his rich pray so joyfull for having brought his designs to such an happy issue as he would not for all the Crowns of the world have exchanged the content he was in This while the Emperour and his Knights grown somewhat more confident returned to the succour of Armazia but not finding her and beholding the Serpent slain in that sort they imagined that none but Gorgophon could give that dreadfull blow whereupon they concluded that he was gone towards the Citie with the Princesse and the beauteous Infanta of Clariana so that with this opinion they left the Forrest but not long after they met with two Saylors who acquainted them with all the busines and assured them that the two Gyants were at sea with the Princesses At this news some ran to the ships for to pursue them others fell to crying out and complayning in such manner as nothing was heard but strange lamentations On the other side Armazia and her fair cousin were in as bad a case for comming to their senses and beholding themselves in the power of those hideous Monsters they presently dissolved into tears and took on most grievously being fully resolved to cast themselves into the sea which doubtlesse they had performed if Gorgophon qualifying his proud and barbarous humour had not assured them that they should receive no displeasure Madam said he to his fair Mistris before whom he was on his knees moderate these sighes and tears Gorgophon is not so cruell as you think he is nor will he ever have any thing from you but what what you shall be pleased freely to grant him time shall acquaint you with his merits and the good office he did you snatching you out of the jaws of that Serpent where your death was inevitable shall be followed with so many services that it may be you will judge him worthy of some favour This speech bringing a little comfort to these afflicted Ladies they wisely resolved to make use of the power their beauties had gotten over these Gyants and to entertain them kindly to decline the violence which they exceedingly feared from them in regard whereof the excellent Armazia answered him thus Gyant if you carry a mind noble enough to observe these promises you have made us we may in time dispose our selvs to wish you well but if you offer to force us in any thing be conâ—ident that our deaths shall prevent your cruelty â—nd that we will never want courage to rid our selves out of the world Further if you desire any way to oblige me doe not carry me to Circassia for the Soldâ—n being so deformed as it is reported unto me I shall never indure to come neer him you merit me thinks far more then he wherefore keep this good fortune for yourself and deserve it more by respect then by your services Madam replyed the Gyant transported with extream joy at this answer which Armazia reserving her selfe for Rozalmonds content had made of purpose to hold him in hand hoping by some accident or other to get out of his power Madam be assured that I will dye a thousand deaths rather then doe any thing shall be distastfull to you I will gladly attend all the time you shall please to ordain for my suffering in the mean while we will goe to the redoubted Ilands of which I am Lord where the power of all the Monarchs of the world shall never take you from thence being able enough to conserve my self and defend you But Madam in sign of the grace that you promise me permit me to kisse these more then delicate hands Most willingly said Armazia who desired to acquire an absolute command over his will and I think my cousin will shew no lesse favour to your companion saying so they tendred them their hands which these Gyants kissed with so much ardour and affection as they had much adoe to contain themselves from passing further but that they were restrayned by the hope they had of enjoying all quietly wherefore being marvellously contentented they fell to discourse with these Princesses and in this sort were carried by the wind which rising very high drove them by the will of heaven that would not permit the undoing of these two incomparable beauties not into the redoubted Ilands but into the Kingdome of Corolandaya where the fame of Griolanis and Adelazia's inchantment possessing them with a marvellous desire to see it they landed there and the next day went to Agricant with some hope for those Ladies to meet with some redress of their miseries The fire which shewed very horrible out of the windows and the lamentation of those unfortunate Lovers having moved Armazia to pitty she turned her to Gorgophon and said unto him Sir if your valour can give these poor wretches any relief you shall doe me a most acceptable service to succour them Madam you have said enough answered Gorgophon for if they were in the hands of all the Divels of hell I would goe and fetch them out since you have commanded me unto it wherupon having laced on his Helmet he made bravely to the dore where the four Pagan Knights charged him very rudely all at once but nothing abashed therwith he gave Falemond so dangerous a blow on the head that he extended him on the ground from whence by the force of Inchantment he stirred not til after the combat but presently feeling two mighty stroaks on his Helmet layd on by the gentle Armorand and the strong Grinaldo he turned towards them with such furie that if the charms had not hindered his Curtelass from drawing bloud of them he had cleft Grinaldo to the teeth neverthelesse the blow which he discharged on his shield was so violent as it layd him along by his companion to the
blowes I will still be the last if I may to retyre Behold great Kings the Emperour of Mellyes designes together with mine freely discovered let us now understand your minds to the end we may know from whom we may expect to be succoured in so just and glorious an enterprise It is usual with men to differ in opinion upon the proposition of any matter whatsoever The most part of these Princes and especially they which desired to seek for glory in bloud and slaughter found this designe to be generous howbeit the rest who weighed all things with a more mature deliberation thought it not fit to be imbraced Falanzar required a generall advice but because they could not speak all at once every man cast his eye upon the King of Cabilla a man of age and experience and desired him to answer for them all who after he had often refused to deliver his opinion before so many Emperours and Princes that were far more eminent in greatnesse than himself at length spake in this manner The King of Cabillaes answer to Falanzar GReat Monarch the Designe you propound is very generous full of zeale for the glory of our Altars and for the honour of our Crowns but it is no lesse difficile than great and when I consider the mischiefes that follow Wars whereof the event is ever doubtfull I neither can authorise nor will counsell you to follow it You attempt most redoubted enemies that were never beaten either abroad or at home all together or apart and that know so well how to manage their affaires as they will make an Elephant of a Rat and so favoured of Fortune that when a man thinks them at the lowest of the wheele hee shall be sure to find them on the top Our Predecessors have many times covered the fields of Greece with an infinitie of men Have they thereby abated their greatnesâ—e Nay â—ather they have augmented it and their own defeat hath served to render them more more glorious If you will call to mind the mighty assemblies which the progenitors of the great Duke of Muscovy that now hears me have heretofore made or that furious voyage of Aleppo where it was believed that all the earth would tremble at the very sight of our Standards but not to go so far if you will consider that here are now present many Successours of a number of Princes slaine in these last expeditions rashly undertaken for the King of Canabea who at length proved to be their Kinsman and for the young Emperour of Ethiopia whom love hath turned enemie to his owne gods without doubt you will not so lightly precipitate year selves nor forsaking the rest you so quietly enjoy will you go and seek out travells whose recompence is but ill assured the Descent to hell is easie so is not the return we may carry a million of men into their Territories but how many of them can we say that we shall save from the fury of their swords I know that revenge is sweet but I condemne those that desire it when they are not able to obtain it Nor dâ—e I speak this because I misdoubt the valour of our Knights and of so many Gyants as we have whose forces are extream but figure 〈◊〉 your selves I pray you Prigmalion Fulgoran and the brave Bastard of Media in the heads of an hundred thousand Horse cutting our squadrens in peeces represent unto your selves Florisel of Niquea Don Rogel of Greece Spheramond Emperour of the Parthians as three furies amongst our Troops and fifty Princes of their blood nothing inferiour to them in valour overthrowing all that ever they meet withall besides have you not heard of those two invincible Champions Alcidamant and Rozalmond whose blows are no lesse violent then lightning Aske of the mighty Gorgophon who hath seen and encountred them in armes what is to be expected from their fury Demand of the redoubted Brizardine Soldan of Aralafia and of the brave Arastron whom here you behold or rather of me alas Demand I say what they thinke and what I beleeve concerning the valour of a young Amadis who in the Empire of Martaria that went disguised in the habit of a mayden Slave they are witnesses of his force and for my part I can tell to my ever lasting griefe that his blows are so many tempests under the fury whereof I have seen Rifantes who might justly vaunt himselfe to be one of the best Knights of the world cleft down to the shoulders but to goe further yet what thinke you of the famous Knight of the Salvage who fils all the earth with wonder or of a young Shepherd called Clarisel before whom the strongest Gyants have fallen are not they to be feared Or will the Jncounter of the valiant King of Corolandaya and a thousand more that I could name whose swords would be so many thunderbolts on the heads of our friends leave you in assurance of victory Verely me thinkes J see our Souldiers already tumbling into the Sea at the landing of our ships I see them some cut off by the middle others divided in twain and all of them bathing in a River of blood Wherefore J will never conclude for war â—or counsell you to be Authour of their destruction for it is a greater glory to preserve then to conquer a people Hewbeit if they should prove so aâ—dacious as to come hither for to see how our Crowns would become their heads then would J speake no longer of rest but would be the the first in the field and let the world know it was not the feare of death made me produce these reasons which I have delivered to perswade you that a certaine peace is better than an uncertaine victory This discourse very powerfull and maintained with the experience of things having put them all in suspence every one began to consider the consequence of this design when as Roussardan the furious King of Grisalara rose up and casting a disdainfull look on the King of Cabilla turned him to Falanzar saying GReat Emperour of Sciconia the advice which the King of Cabilla gives you is indeed very fit for him that prefers his pleasures before glory but most pernicious for a Prince that desires to render himselfe greater by his owne vertue than by the possession of States and I wonder that so many excellent Knights wherewith this place is replenished could all this while indure such prating as hath done nothing but undervalew us he bâ—asts the power of our enemyes as if ours were lesse and measuring every ones arme by his owne which is unable to support more then one Scepter would perswade us that those of the Christians are stronger and their swords better edged than ours but we should prove as cowardly as he to belâ—â—ve him and it would for ever hereafter be a shame unto as if we should nâ—w retire upon so unworthy a consideration I agree with him that the effect of War is doubtfull nor will I deny but
front before a litter crownd with crimson velvet on the one side thereof a big Knight richly armed and of a haughty look on the other a reasonable handsome damsell fowr Knights behind This equipage having made him turn aside the better to observe it begot such an earnest desire in him to know what was in the litter that approaching it and addressing himself unto him who appeared to be of so good a presence he said unto him Knight be pleased to tell me what it is you conduct in this Litter It is that which you may not know answered he in an arrogant maner unles first you vanquish me and afterward these seven Knights together that also you grant a boon to this damsell Now think whether your forces are capable of so great a charge or whether you have sufficient courage to undertake it if not depart for all the praiers in the world shall get you no other satisfaction You are so discurteous answered Don Griolanis that if I had not a desire to undertake this adventure your arrogance would make me fight with you therefore I will know by experience what is in you and look into this Litter spite of your teeth wherupon placing themselves in the middle of the way just one against the other they charged their lances and incountered so strongly that the stranger flew to the ground Griolanis having lost both his stirrups was so astonished with the violence of the shock that his course was finished before he could come to himself howbeit considering that it was no time to complain he quickly recovered his spirits alighted from his horse drew his sword and seeing his enemy that was risen come towards him with an extream desire to revenge his disgrace he met him and withall gave him two such terrible blows that he was compelled to knock his chin against his breast which so incensed him that clasping his sword fast in his hand he smote him so furiously that he smote his shield in two Griolanis stroaks were dreadfull no lesse impetuous were those of the Knight of the Litter if the one struck the other gave a thrust they cunningly avoided blows their dexterity was admirable their force extream their rage so great that to see them hew one another in that maner nothing els could be expected thence but death two howrs being spent since the beginning of the combat Griolanis enraged with this protraction redoubled his blows most furiously and perceiving his enemy grow weary he gave him such a cruell cut three fingers deep on the shoulder that he staggered with it and not permitting him to come to himself again he struck him with such a mighty force upon the head that he laid him stark dead in the place Behold said he the reward of pride and the punishment which attends the unadvised it may be lawfull for me now I hope to see what I have so much desired Our deaths answered one of the Knights must first accompany our conductor Truly said Griolanis it is much against my will if I sight at this present but since you constrain me you shall suffer for it Saying so he quickly leapt into his saddle and taking a lance from his Squire he ran against the seven Knights who incountred him furiously all at once and brake all their spears upon him without moving him any more then if they had resisted against some rock but it fell out otherwise with him at whom he aimed his lance for he was run quite through and through and overthrown dead to the earth Having ended his course he returned with his sword aloft and seeing himself invironed by six men who seemed to be fearles of death he began to lay about him now he foind at one then he cut another on the head heer fell a leg there flew off an arm and briefly he quartered them with such fury that in lesse then half an howr three of them were laid dead on the ground the rest notwithstanding grew more obstinate and drawing strength from their grief for the losse of their friends they seemed to fight with the more rage and fury but being in the hands of one of the prime Knights of the world all that they could do was to no purpose for they were soon cut in pieces and there remained none but the damsell who being much amazed at the incomparable valour of this Knight beheld him with wonder Gentlewoman said he approaching to her may I now be permitted to see that which I have so deerly bought with the death of these discurteous Knights Yes Sir answered she so as you promise me one boon Most willingly said Griolanis for I was born for the service of Ladies You may approach then when you please said she Griolanis having lift up the covering beheld in the bottom of the Litter the pourtrait of a Queen so marvellous fair that he was almost beside himself considering her with so much perfection Good God cried he what a world of beauties are heer assembled together and how happy is the Knight that can hope for the possession of so invaluable a treasure Gentlewoman be pleased I pray you to let me understand the name of this excellent Princesse and why you cary her picture about in this fashion It is fit said she that I give you this satisfaction seeing you have nobly promised to grant me what I shall desire of you You see the face and features but not all the beauties and graces of the mighty Queen of Corolandaya for her actions are so winning that they render her accomplishments far greater and more commendable As for that which concerns our voiage I will deliver you the cause of it The Kingdome of this Princesse consisting of one of the most spacious and fertile Islands in the world accommodated with safe harbors strong places valiant warriors and exceeding lovely dames gave her a number of excellent Knights for servants some carried by the consideration of this crown and others to injoy a thing so rare whereupon depended the former The fame of the beauties and graces of this Queen every day bringing one Knight or other to present his service unto her it hapned that at one time there were two and thirty which caried with a like desire to shew their valor before her made a turnament where in few words jealousie incensing their fury they hewed one another so cruelly that notwithstanding all the praiers of Adelazia so is my Mistris named who wept and took on pitiously there was but one remained alive all the rest having past by the edge of the sword the Queen was so sensible of this massacre that she swore never to admit of any man more and to that end she caused thirty soldiers to be placed at each port of her Kingdome with expresse commandement not to suffer any Knight whatsoever to land and conceiving that one valiant person might vanquish them she made a law whereby she ordayned that not any one of those which
should be so fortunate as to passe in despite of her guards should see her before they had submitted unto one commandement of three the choice whereof she left unto them assuring her selfe that the least of the three was impossible for any man whatsoever to perform or that they had overcome an hundred armed men which should be alwaies ready waiting at the gates of the town where she pleased to make her residence Since that time many have presented themselves at the port some of purpose others driven in by fowl weather but being vanquished by the guards they retired with disgrace only this miserable man whom you have slain the Prince of Argilles named Silvion subdued the thirty Knights and entred into the Island where the Queen causing three most difficile things to be propounded unto him namely either to give her the scepter of Greece by the death of all the Princes which possesse it or present her with the goodliest Knight the most exquisit beauty of the earth or conduct her portrait through all the Provinces of the Orient in the maner that you have seen maintain in all the Courts of Kings that she was the fairest Lady in the World and at the end of six yeers return unconquered which done she promised he should see her and that with her self she would give him the Crown of Corolandaya This infortunate Prince finding an extream favor in this last commandement most willingly undertook that charge albeit that the term of six yeers was grievous unto him and therefore desired that she would be pleased to appoint some one to accompany him who might be judge of his actions and give her account therof which she granted sending me along with him and expresly commanding me to write all the names of such as should be vanquished upon this quarrell and present her with a list of all the Princesses for whose service they undertook the combat the which accordingly I have performed having already the names of threescore and twelve daughters to Sovereign Potentates and of two hundred Knights bravely fought withall and overcome but the end of my commission arriving by the death of this Knight I am constrained instantly to return and carry back this Litter to Corolandaya whither you shall accompany me if you please suffering no man to see the portrait of my Lady wherunto you are obliged by the boon you have promised me Gentlewoman said Griolanis there needed no promise to make me undertake this voyage with you for I feel my self already so much the servant of this Princesse that if it like you I will eyther continue the enterprizâ— of this Knight I have slain or otherwise fulfill your pleasure protesting according to your desire that no man shall have the content to behold so delicate a face without he buy it at the same rate it cost me The damsell then commanding a little dwarf to drive on the horses put her self behind the Litter with the Knight who having doft his helmet for to refresh himselâ— made this Gentlewoman so amazed that she could not contain from crying out O Gods what an incounter is this I beheld even now in the combat of this Knight all the valor that may be wished for in a man now I see all the charms and all the graces that can be desired in the sweetest face of the World Ah Sir if the Prince of Argilles had beheld you without an helmet and that he could have prevailed more by his praiers then he hath done by his sword doubtlesse he had shewed my Mistris that which she most desires placing you by her he had assembled the goodliest Knight and the beautifullest Lady in the earth but it much rejoices me that she shall not be deprived of this contentment seeing I am conducting you unto her Griolanis laughing at this speech began to entertain her with other discourse and so sweetly passing away the time they arrived at the Sea side where they imbarqued themselves sailing towards the Island of Corolandaya whither we will leave them going for to overtake Grian the Savage CHAP. X. The Adventures which happened to Grian the Savage after he was separated from Griolanis the Loves of Arliana and Zelandion and the beginning of his own with the fair Brandimanda Queen of the Amazâ—ns THE Knight of the Savage being separated from Griolanis as you saw in the precedent Chapter travelled all the day not meeting with any adventure and perceiving himself when it began to wax dark at the foot of a rock upon the which he discerned a little house he took a path that he thought would lead him to it and went about so long till he came to the door of it where at the first knock two yong Hermites appeared who having received him very curteously brought him to a chamber and helped him to unarm himself whilst his Squire set up his horses in a little hovell there by Grian finding more meat then he could hope for that barren place fell to with a good stomack howbeit he was not so attentive to his pallat but that he observed how the actions speech and countenance of these Religious persons did not shew to be of men able to endure the austerity of a solitary life having then a very great desire to know what he was ignorant of he said unto them Excuse me I pray you if I suspect that you are not such as you seem to be your voices and youth perswade me that you are some women abused and reduced by despair to so desert a place let me obtain of you not to conceal any thing from me declare your misfortunes and I vow by the Order of Knighthood which I have received to assist you in all that shall be necessary to your content Your judgement doth not deceive you answered one of them with her eies full of tears we are the unhappiest creatures in the world she by pertaking my miserie and I by giving too light beleefe unto the words of a man the most disloiall that ever breathed he is called Zelandion Count of Maâ—tage and I am named Arliana no lesse rich and as well derived as he but it may be not so fair as was requisite to settle his fickle humour it was my ill fortune to see him at a turnament made in honour of the nuptialls of a kinswoman of mine where most unluckily he chose me out from all the rest to combat under my favour I accepted him for my Knight beleeving that his merits and civility commanded me to do him that grace and then I began to love him so extreamly that from thence doth the occasion of all my complaints proceed He was adjudged the best man at arms and I the fairâ—st woman of the assembly which was the reason that we willingly grew acquainted together finding a certain kinde of I know not what sweetnesse in our conversation which reciprocally informing our knowledge with the perfections of the minde as the eie had done by those of